Cape Sounio: overlooking the Aegean Sea!

If you ever visit Sounio, you’ll soon realize the true meaning of expressions like “outstanding beauty”, “majestic panoramic view”, and “breathtaking sunset”. These words are completely truthful! So, when in Attica, don’t miss this spot. Travel to the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula and visit one of the most impressive and most photographed sights in Greece. It’s no exaggeration to say that you’ll be utterly struck with awe!

According to Homer, Sounio was “the sacred cape of the Athenians”. These outstanding columns were known in the past as “Kavokolones” (i.e. cape columns). On the highest point of the steep, rocky cape lies the temple of Poseidon. The impressive Doric temple was built of local marble around 450-440 B.C. on the ruins of an archaic temple that was destroyed by the Persians.

The temple of Poseidon has some columns that remain standing. Not far from there, you can also see the ruins of the temple of Athena Sounias, the walls of the site fortress, the old settlement within the fortress, as well as the small naval base and a ship shed for warships.

According to the myth, the Athenian King Aegeus waited at Sounio for his son, Theseus, to arrive. Theseus had sailed to Crete to kill the “Minotaur” and promised his father that if he returned victorious, he would replace his ships’ black sails with white ones. However, he forgot to do so. When Aegeus saw the black sails on the ship, he thought his son had been killed and jumped off the cliff, killing himself. To commemorate King Aegeus, the sea was named after him and is now known as the Aegean Sea.

Since the 17th century, foreign travellers have been visiting Sounio, admiring the beauty of the site and its exceptional temple. Among the early visitors was the famous British poet and politician Lord Byron in 1810.

Overlooking the Aegean Sea!

Cape Sounio is a popular attraction in Attica and is an ideal day-trip destination for all visitors. The impressive archaeological site is open from early morning until late afternoon and offers unobstructed views of the Aegean Sea and the nearby islands. Don’t miss the beautiful sunset from this privileged spot or the magical full moon, both of which are unforgettable experiences.

Sounio has more to offer visitors throughout the year. You can swim in one of the dozens of nearby beaches, which can be remote or organized. After swimming, enjoy a delicious meal by the sea. You can also visit Lavrio, the nearby harbour town with outstanding natural beauty and historic heritage. For those looking to get off the beaten track, the National Park of Sounio is a lesser-known but beautiful destination. It is the smallest national park in Greece, but it is a place of rare natural beauty.